15 amps vs 20 amps


Firstly, let me state that I’m no electrician so forgive my ignorance about all this....

My wife and I have just moved to a new house.  We’re very happy, but there’s something unusual about the house! The great news is that it’s almost completely Ethernet wired and came with a kick-ass networking system. Fabulous wireless and Ethernet performance everywhere.

After a few days unboxing and settling in, I thought I’d rig up my system.  This is where the apologies start - I hadn’t actually noticed that most of the house is supplied by a 20 amp circuit, until I tried plugging in my Audioquest Storm power cable, which is meant to connect to my15amp Niagara power supply, and then to my components. No harm done, but the plug was clearly not fitting easily into the outlet. I didn’t force it and stopped  my installation. 
It looks like setting up my system is going to be a project.  Firstly, can anyone tell me if it’s ok using 15 amp audio components through 20 amp outlets? Do I need to change anything like fuses, plugs, outlets? Will 20 amps be good/bad/same for performance? Safety concerns?

As you can tell, I know very little about this and would prefer not to make a costly mistake.

thanks for any advice.




janehamble

Showing 4 responses by janehamble

Thanks to everyone who’s posted.  Seems like I’ve got a nice, unexpected bonus in terms of power supply.  I’m unable to get my Audioquest Storm plugs to fit into to outlet but I’ve also got a Blizzard which seems to squeeze in ok.  Everything sounding very good. I might think about upgrading the outlet - should I put another 20 amp type or a 15 amp?  Many thanks for tips. 
@lak Yes I think it makes sense to upgrade the outlet.  I did this in my old house and was surprised at how much SQ difference it made.  Taking your advice I put in another 20 amp outlet.

The house is not new but was fairly recently rewired.  I believe the previous owners operated some kind of small business in the house - which accounts for large number of outlets, 20 amp circuits and pro-grade network installation.